Why I'm not shopping for six months - Women's Agenda

Why I’m not shopping for six months

When we arrived home last weekend after two weeks at the beach I contemplated two options. To unpack as quickly as possible or to unpack properly? On a whim I opted for the latter, so while my husband tackled the kitchen and the supermarket I set about decluttering, reorganising, and tidying various cupboards before unpacking our things.

This is unprecedented for me, as I usually opt for the “do-it-as-fast-and painlessly-as-possible” option when unpacking from anything. The problem is ‘fast and painless’ can only coexist for so long when it comes to household logistics. And in my cupboards that point was reached a long time ago.

After doing a long overdue audit in my daughters’ wardrobe (putting things that no longer fit in storage boxes, getting out the next size of hand-me-down clothes from existing storage boxes, and creating some order), I moved to my room. This was partly because of our wardrobe detox article that was so popular last week, but mostly it was because after the thrill of doing it once I was hooked. Who knew that decluttering and getting organised could feel so satisfying?

Anyway as I was hanging, discarding and rediscovering various garments, basking in smug satisfaction, my 2015 new year’s resolution finally came to me. For six months I am not going to buy an item of clothes: instead, I am going to get creative and see how I go “shopping” my own wardrobe. The only disclaimer is that if I do want something I have to sell something (or several things) I already own to cover the price tag.

Cleaning out my wardrobe made me realise how many things I own that I barely ever wear. The same items are on high rotation which is a waste for all the lovely items that get overlooked out of habit.

I am looking at my resolution as a personal challenge that will save me money and time, and force me to be more creative. Have you tried something like this?

Regardless of whether you need or want a shopping ban, have you done a wardrobe detox? For the sheer thrill of opening your cupboard and seeing order, I highly recommend it!

×

Stay Smart! Get Savvy!

Get Women’s Agenda in your inbox